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6L M552C

Main Engine 4-Stroke · Main Engines (4-Stroke)

Technical data from manufacturer or class sources · not yet verified by a person
5,520 kWPower
6Cylinders
552 mmBore
720 mmStroke

The marine diesel engines belong to the category of heavy-duty power generators. The Caterpillar MaK 6L M552C is a legacy model, produced in the late 1980s and still operational today due to its robust design. This engine features a bore of 450 mm and a stroke of 550 mm (M551) or 520 mm (M552), capable of delivering up to 835 bhp at 500 rpm with heavy fuel oil as the primary fuel source. Common issues include valve guide wear, piston crown erosion from incorrect injection timing, turbocharger bearing wear due to lubrication management challenges, and connecting rod clearance drift in its long-stroke design. Regular inspections focusing on these areas are crucial for maintaining optimal performance.

Specifications

Technical data.reference — unverified

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Bore450 mm
Stroke M551550 mm
Stroke M552520 mm
Output per cylinder780 bhp (M551 @ 425 rpm) / 835 bhp (M552 @ 500 rpm)
SFOC (8-cyl economy)130 g/bhp-h
Lubrication oil inlet50-55 °C
Oil pressure4.0-5.0 bar
Valve guide clearance limit0.40 mm (inlet & exhaust)
Fuel capabilityup to 7,000 sec Redwood I @ 100 °F
ConfigurationL
Speed (rpm)400
Fuel TypeHFO
TechnologyMechanical Heavy-Duty Trunk Piston
Displacement l per cyl172.3
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